Vivian Wotton (nee Sees) passed away peacefully at the age of 103 on Thanksgiving weekend 2026.
The following is a tribute from Royal Canadian Legion Branch 317 in London (ON) where Vivian, a World War II Veteran, was a member for 79 years.
“Born in Port Elgin, Ontario in September 1923, Vivian Winniefred Sees enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force in April, 1943 at just 19 years of age, following in the footsteps of her older sister, Thelma, who had entered the previous year.
After completing her training at Rockcliffe near Ottawa, Vivian served as a Filter Centre Operator with Radar Central Control Command in Victoria, British Columbia, with a brief posting to Prince Rupert.
Her war-time responsibilities involved monitoring aircraft movements along Canada’s western coast helping track aircraft and protect Canadian airspace. This important work was highly classified and Vivian remained reluctant to discuss the details for many years after the ward.
Following her discharge in 1946, Vivian returned to Ontario eventually settled in London. She attended Military Business College and went on to work in the transportation industry.
Vivian’s remarkable military service was recognized in the Royal Canadian Legion Ontario Command’s Military Service Recognition Book, Volume XII page 33, under her maiden name, Vivian Winnifred Sees.
Perhaps most remarkable was Vivian’s extraordinary 79 years of membership at Legion Victory Branch 317. Her lifelong dedication to the Legion and her fellow veterans is a legacy of which our Branch can be truly proud.
Vivian belonged to an exceptional generation of Canadian women who answered their country’s call during the Second Worlc War. Her service, comitment and remarkable life deserve our deepest respect and gratitude.
On behalf of the President, Executive, and entire memership of Victory Branch 31, we extend our sincere condolences to Vivian’s family and friends.
Rest in peace, Comrade Vivian Wotton. Thank you for your service, your loyalty, and your many years as part of our membership family.”
We Will Remember Her
Lest We Forget
